KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian hockey family is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved sons.
Kevin Christopher Nunis, a former Olympian, SEA Games gold medallist, and dedicated coach, passed away yesterday at the age of 65.
Kevin wasn’t just a name on a team sheet — he was the heartbeat of Malaysian hockey. A natural-born leader, a brother on the field, a mentor off it, and a man whose presence brought comfort, confidence, and camaraderie wherever he went.
Born in Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Kevin’s journey with hockey began in his youth and soared internationally when he represented Malaysia at the 1979 Junior World Cup in Paris.
A dynamic forward, he went on to compete at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games — a moment that etched his name into the annals of Malaysian sporting history.
He also represented Malaysia at two Asian Games (1982, 1986) and three SEA Games (1983, 1987, 1989), winning multiple medals — and the hearts of many.
His transition from player to coach was seamless. Kevin served as assistant national coach under Terry Walsh in 1992, led the Terengganu state team in the 1990s, and 2021, was appointed head coach of the National Hockey Development Programme (NHDP).
He also coached in Singapore, extending his influence beyond borders and leaving his mark on regional hockey development.
Speaking to Scoop, national head coach Sarjit Singh, a long-time friend and teammate, recalled Kevin’s profound presence both on and off the pitch.
“Kevin was a wonderful guy — one of our key forwards and a true team player,” Sarjit told Scoop.
“From the early days, he was like a brother to me. He, along with M. Surendran, was among those who guided and supported me when I first joined the national squad.
“One of the greatest moments we shared was beating Pakistan at the 1986 Asian Games — that victory is etched in my memory.
“Kevin was more than just a teammate. He was a mentor, a motivator, and later, an influential coach during his NHDP days.
“His passing is a massive loss not just to Malaysian hockey, but to the entire sporting fraternity. My heart aches with his departure. We have truly lost one of our finest,” Sarjit added.
National junior head coach Nor Saiful Zaini, who looked up to Kevin as both a teammate and mentor, reflected on his enduring influence.
“Kevin was at the tail end of his playing career when I joined the national team at the age of 18 or 19, and I was lucky to have played alongside him,” said Nor Saiful.
“He was incredibly skilful in the D — composed, sharp, and always a threat inside the circle.
“As a coach, Kevin brought a fresh approach. He focused heavily on fundamentals, but also placed strong emphasis on the psychological side of the game. His advice and perspective helped many players unlock their potential.
“He was one of my role models — someone I always looked up to. His words of encouragement shaped my journey as both a player and now a coach. I’ll never forget the impact he had on my life.”
Former Olympian Maninderjit Singh remembered Kevin as a rare gem — both as an athlete and a person.
“Kevin was a true hockey icon in our country. As a player, he completed the full circle — from representing Malaysia at the Olympics to coaching at the grassroots level, and even having a coaching stint in Singapore,” said Maninderjit.
“He was one of those rare, dedicated former internationals who earned the highest respect within the hockey community. Kevin was a naturally gifted player, especially lethal in the striking circle. His deflection skills were world‑class.
“Off the pitch, he was always jovial, with that cheeky smile that everyone loved. A genuinely good soul who lived his life with heart and humour.
“We’ve lost a great sportsman and a great human being. He will be dearly missed by all of us in the hockey fraternity. My deepest condolences to his family.”
As tributes continue to pour in, one thing is certain — Kevin Christopher Nunis gave everything he had to Malaysian hockey.
His passion, his wisdom, and his spirit now live on in every player he trained, every team he inspired, and every story he helped write — on and off the pitch. — June 29, 2025
The post Goodbye, favourite son of Malaysian hockey: The fraternity mourns Kevin Nunis appeared first on Scoop.